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Fidelity Bank Appoints Onwughalu as New Chairman as Chike-Obi’s Tenure Ends

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Fidelity Bank Appoints Onwughalu as New Chairman as Chike-Obi’s Tenure Ends

Fidelity Bank Plc has announced the completion of Mr. Mustafa Chike-Obi’s tenure as Chairman of its Board of Directors, effective December 31, 2025, and the appointment of Mrs. Amaka Onwughalu as the new Chairman, effective January 1, 2026.

The board transition aligns with the Bank’s governance policy and has been communicated to the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Nigerian Exchange Group, and other stakeholders.

During his tenure, Mr. Chike-Obi oversaw significant milestones for the bank, including the repayment of its Eurobond, completion of a highly successful public offer and rights issue, international expansion to the United Kingdom, and improved ratings from various agencies.

His leadership strengthened the bank’s capital position, grew customer deposits and total assets, enhanced digital banking capabilities, and advanced corporate and investment banking offerings. Operational efficiency, governance, and risk management also improved under his watch, contributing to sustained market confidence.

Reflecting on his tenure, Mr. Chike-Obi said, “It has been a privilege to serve as Chairman of Fidelity Bank. The dedication of our Board, management, and staff has enabled us to reach significant milestones. I am confident that the Bank will continue to thrive and deliver value to all stakeholders.”

Mrs. Amaka Onwughalu, who joined the Board in December 2020 and has chaired key committees, brings over 30 years of banking experience, including executive roles at Mainstreet Bank Limited and Skye Bank Plc. She holds degrees in Economics, Corporate Governance, and Business Administration and has completed executive programmes at global institutions.

She is a Fellow of several professional bodies and has been recognized for accountability and financial management.

Commenting on her appointment, Mrs. Onwughalu said, “I am honoured to lead the Board of Fidelity Bank at this exciting time. Our recent achievements have set a strong foundation for continued growth. I look forward to working with my colleagues to drive our strategy and deliver sustainable value.”

LSSTF Hails Donors, Corporate Partners, Sets Agenda for Safer Lagos in 2026

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blacktalker
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LSSTF Hails Donors, Corporate Partners, Sets Agenda for Safer Lagos in 2026

The Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF, has begun the new year by commending its donors and corporate partners for their sustained support toward strengthening security and stability across Lagos State in 2025.

In a New Year statement signed by the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Fund, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, on behalf of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Board of Trustees, Management, and staff of the LSSTF expressed appreciation to partners for their unwavering commitment to collective security.

Dr. Ogunsan noted that the contributions made by donors over the past year went beyond financial support, reflecting trust, shared responsibility, and a collective resolve to safeguard lives, property, and the economic vitality of Lagos State.

He stated that the partnerships enabled the Fund to strengthen the operational capacity of security agencies, enhance their effectiveness, and respond more efficiently to evolving security challenges across the state.

According to him, Governor Sanwo-Olu continues to value the enduring collaboration between the public and private sectors, describing it as a model for sustainable security funding with measurable impact, not only for Lagos as Nigeria’s commercial hub, but for the country at large.

Looking ahead to 2026, the LSSTF expressed optimism about consolidating gains recorded in the previous year, deepening strategic partnerships, and welcoming new donors aligned with its vision of a secure, resilient, and investor-friendly Lagos State.

Dr. Ogunsan said the Fund remains confident that sustained collaboration will be critical to staying ahead of emerging security threats and ensuring continued progress in the year ahead.

Customs, NDLEA Seize 30.1kg of Cocaine at Apapa Port

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blacktalker
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Customs, NDLEA Seize 30.1kg of Cocaine at Apapa Port

The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Apapa Area Command, in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, has intercepted 30.1 kilograms of cocaine concealed onboard a Marshall Islands-flagged vessel at Apapa Port, Lagos.

The seizure, which involved 30 slabs of cocaine, was carried out on Friday, January 2, 2026, at the Greenview Terminal on the first working day of the new year. The illicit drugs were discovered onboard the MV Aruna, highlighting what authorities described as the increasingly sophisticated methods employed by international drug trafficking syndicates to exploit Nigeria’s busiest seaport.

The Customs Area Controller, Apapa Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, commended officers of both agencies for their vigilance and professionalism, describing the interception as evidence of effective inter-agency collaboration and intelligence-driven enforcement.

He said the seizure sends a strong message at the start of 2026 that the command maintains a zero-tolerance stance against smuggling and illicit trade, adding that criminal elements would not be allowed to undermine national security under his watch.

In line with established procedures, the seized cocaine has been handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation and prosecution of suspects linked to the shipment.

The latest interception is the third major drug seizure recorded by the joint NCS-NDLEA team in recent weeks. About two weeks ago, the agencies intercepted 25.5 kilograms of cocaine concealed in five bags onboard another vessel following actionable intelligence.

Similarly, on December 11, 2025, officers uncovered 1,187 kilograms of “Canadian Loud,” a high-value strain of cannabis, packaged in 2,374 parcels across 55 bags and hidden inside imported vehicles in a 40-foot container.

Comptroller Oshoba reaffirmed that the Apapa Port Command remains committed to facilitating legitimate trade while safeguarding national security.

Benson-Awoyinka Seeks Collective Effort to Build More Vibrant State in New Year Message

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blacktalker
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Benson-Awoyinka Seeks Collective Effort to Build More Vibrant State in New Year Message

Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, has called on residents and stakeholders in the tourism, entertainment, and hospitality sectors to embrace the New Year with renewed hope, unity, and a shared commitment to progress.

In a New Year message, the Commissioner expressed gratitude for the achievements recorded across the tourism, entertainment, and hospitality industries in the past year, describing the milestones as a product of collective creativity, resilience, and collaboration rather than individual accomplishments.

She noted that the progress made reflects the dedication of industry practitioners, creatives, investors, and partners who continue to contribute to the growth and global appeal of Lagos State.

Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka urged stakeholders to sustain the momentum in 2026 by working together to spread joy, optimism, and innovation, while strengthening Lagos’ position as a leading cultural, tourism, and entertainment destination.

She further reaffirmed the commitment of the Lagos State Government to supporting initiatives that enhance the sector, promote cultural expression, and drive economic growth.

The Commissioner wished residents and visitors a prosperous, fulfilling, and successful New Year, expressing optimism that 2026 will usher in greater opportunities and achievements for Lagos State.

CP Ogunlowo Inaugurates Quarter Guard, Security Tower at Ibara Police Division

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blacktalker
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CP Ogunlowo Inaugurates Quarter Guard, Security Tower at Ibara Police Division

The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, Ph.D., has inaugurated a newly constructed quarter guard and security tower at the Ibara Police Divisional Headquarters in Abeokuta.

The facility, which was initiated by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), CSP Lateef Balogun, is designed to improve access control, surveillance, and overall security within the division.

Speaking during the inauguration, CP Ogunlowo commended the initiative, describing it as a proactive step that aligns with the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to improving safety and professionalism at all levels of policing.

The Commissioner also lauded the support of the host community, noting that community cooperation remains critical to effective policing and crime prevention. He stressed that partnerships between the police and the public are essential for maintaining law and order and building trust.

CP Ogunlowo expressed confidence that the newly inaugurated quarter guard and security tower would enhance the division’s capacity to respond to security challenges, protect personnel and assets, and deliver improved services to residents of the area.

Ogun Police Command Decorates 18 Newly Promoted Chief Superintendents

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blacktalker
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Ogun Police Command Decorates 18 Newly Promoted Chief Superintendents

The Ogun State Police Command has decorated eighteen newly promoted senior officers, following their elevation from the rank of Superintendent of Police to Chief Superintendent of Police.

This is in line with the Inspector-General of Police’s commitment to professionalism, motivation and reward for excellence within the Nigeria Police Force.

The decoration ceremony was marked by excitement and appreciation from the promoted officers, their families and colleagues, reflecting the significance of the career milestone.

Among the newly promoted officers are CSP Olorundare Bolanle, Divisional Traffic Officer, Agbado, who is the most senior among the promotees and delivered the vote of thanks on behalf of her colleagues; CSP Abimbola Oyeyemi, Officer-in-Charge of General Investigation at the State Criminal Investigation Department, Eleweran; and CSP Kamorudeen Olabisi, Divisional Police Officer, Ifo Division.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, charged the officers to justify the confidence reposed in them by the Inspector-General of Police through increased diligence, discipline and professionalism in the discharge of their duties.

He emphasised that promotion to a higher rank comes with greater responsibility and accountability, urging them to lead by example in service to the public.

The Commissioner expressed confidence that the newly promoted officers would continue to contribute meaningfully to the safety and security of lives and property across Ogun State, noting that the decoration exercise serves as a morale booster and reinforces the Force’s commitment to recognising hard work and dedication.

The ceremony concluded with goodwill messages and appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police for approving the promotions, as the officers assumed their new ranks with renewed commitment to effective policing and service delivery in the state.

Soludo Reaffirms Commitment to Development in New Year Message

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blacktalker
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Soludo Reaffirms Commitment to Development in New Year Message

Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has congratulated Ndi Anambra and Nigerians on the celebration of the New Year 2026, expressing optimism, gratitude and renewed determination to deepen development across the state.

In his New Year goodwill message, Governor Soludo said the dawn of a new year offers an opportunity to reflect on achievements, learn from challenges and recommit to collective efforts toward building a prosperous, secure and sustainably developed Anambra State.

The Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr Christian Aburime, said Soludo extended warm wishes to citizens and residents of the state, urging them to embrace the new year with gratitude for the resilience, industry and patriotic spirit that continue to distinguish Ndi Anambra within Nigeria and in the diaspora.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of the people, the governor said the focus of his government in 2026 would remain firmly anchored on the Solution pillars of infrastructure development, quality education, accessible healthcare, economic empowerment, environmental sustainability, and the security of lives and property.

According to him, the Soludo administration will intensify efforts in the new year to deliver more projects and programmes that directly improve living conditions, expand opportunities for young people and position Anambra State as a leading destination for investment and innovation in Nigeria.

Aburime noted that the governor emphasised the importance of partnership between government and the governed, stressing that sustainable development can only be achieved through shared responsibility. He therefore called on Ndi Anambra and Nigerians at large to continue to support and cooperate with governments at both the state and federal levels.

Governor Soludo concluded by congratulating Ndi Anambra on the New Year celebration and prayed that 2026 brings abundant blessings, good health, peace and prosperity to households in Anambra State and across Nigeria.

LASWA, NIWA Intensify Rescue Efforts After Boat Mishap Claims Six Lives Near Igbologun

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blacktalker
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LASWA, NIWA Intensify Rescue Efforts After Boat Mishap Claims Six Lives Near Igbologun

The Lagos State Waterways Authority, LASWA and the National Inland Waterways Authority, NIWA, have confirmed a fatal boat mishap involving a Savvy Marine passenger boat along the Nigerdock axis of the Igbologun water channel in Lagos.

The incident occurred at about 8:35 p.m. on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, while the boat was reportedly en route from Ilashe Beach House.

Upon receiving a distress alert, LASWA and NIWA immediately activated their Search and Rescue teams, working in close collaboration with the Marine Police and other first responders.

As of the latest update, four passengers have been rescued alive and taken to a nearby hospital, where they are receiving medical attention. However, six other passengers were recovered dead at the scene, while search and rescue operations are ongoing to account for all persons involved in the incident.

Preliminary findings suggest that the boat may have collided with a submerged object, though authorities said investigations are still ongoing to determine the exact cause of the mishap.

LASWA and NIWA assured that a thorough investigation would be conducted and that further updates would be made available as more details emerge.

The waterways authorities expressed their deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the deceased, reaffirming their commitment to ensuring safety on Lagos inland waterways.

They also reiterated the importance of strict adherence to safety regulations, including proper navigation practices and compliance with the no-night-travel rule.

Members of the public have been urged to remain calm and rely only on verified information from LASWA, NIWA, and other official sources as rescue and investigation efforts continue.

CP Lagos Command Decorates 35 Newly Promoted Officers

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blacktalker
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CP Lagos Command Decorates 35 Newly Promoted Officers

The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has decorated thirty-five newly promoted senior officers of the Command, reaffirming the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to professionalism and reward for excellence.

The promotion exercise involved 30 Superintendents of Police (SPs) elevated to the rank of Chief Superintendents of Police (CSPs), while five Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs) were promoted to the rank of Superintendent of Police (SP).

Speaking during the decoration ceremony, CP Jimoh described the promotions as a clear reflection of the Inspector-General of Police’s commitment to motivation, professionalism and recognition of dedication within the Force.

He noted that the exercise underscores the principle that hard work, discipline and commitment to duty are acknowledged and rewarded, urging officers to see the advancement as encouragement for even higher performance.

On behalf of officers and men of the Lagos State Command, the Commissioner expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, for finding the promoted officers worthy of the confidence and responsibilities entrusted to them.

He noted that the promotion would further boost morale and enhance operational efficiency and service delivery across the Command.

CP Jimoh charged the newly promoted officers to uphold the highest standards of diligence, discipline and professionalism, stressing that higher rank comes with greater responsibility and accountability.

He expressed confidence that the officers would continue to contribute significantly to the safety and security of lives and property in Lagos State.

The Commissioner congratulated the officers and their families on the well-deserved promotions and conveyed the goodwill and best wishes of the Inspector-General of Police as they assume their new ranks.

The event was witnessed by senior officers of the Command, family members and colleagues of the promoted officers.

LASG Urges Residents to Reflect, Pray as New Year Approaches

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blacktalker
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LASG Urges Residents to Reflect, Pray as New Year Approaches

The Lagos State Government has called on residents to use the end-of-year period to reflect, give thanks, and prayerfully prepare for the New Year, following the cancellation of this year’s Greater Lagos Countdown.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, the government said the close of the year offers Lagosians an opportunity to take stock of personal and collective achievements while renewing their commitment to peace, unity, and shared prosperity.

Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka noted that as 2025 draws to a close, residents are encouraged to strengthen family bonds, promote harmony within their communities, and uphold the values of responsibility, compassion, and resilience that continue to define Lagos State.

She expressed appreciation, on behalf of the Lagos State Government, to residents, partners, creatives, and stakeholders who have supported the Greater Lagos Countdown over the years, describing the event as a symbol of cultural celebration, togetherness, and hope.

While the countdown event will not take place this year, the Commissioner reassured residents that the spirit of the season remains rooted in gratitude, reflection, and optimism as the state looks forward to a New Year filled with promise and opportunity.

The Lagos State Government also wished residents a peaceful end to the year and a prosperous, healthy, and fulfilling New Year.

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